Tam Hanna over at TamsPPC, dropped us a line today about some "Insider Info" that he was privy to, that sounded great in the email, and read well via RSS. Far be it from me to doubt anything from an "Insider".

Now the news suggests a couple of new Palm models, the Zeppelin and the Skywriter. Seems to be a departure from Palms current naming strategy, Treo, Centro etc; doesn’t it. Is it pointing to the release of the much lamented, wonder if it will ever arrive, updated Palm OS.

The main gist of the info is Palm inviting software developers to participate in the launch of these new devices, and value-add, with some new applications. Then there’s a mock up of one of the new devices, which is well I’ll let you decide. I’ll borrow one of Lauren’s shots from her recent review of the Centro for you to have something to compare the mock up with.

So the device mock up is a bit lack lustre, and not what we would call realistic. It definitely doesn’t reflect Palm’s design direction at the moment.

So the question  is will the Zeppelin crash and burn like it’s predecessor, and create a huge memorable media event, or will the sky writing just blow away?

I’m always skeptical about information like this, no source, nothing verified, just a bit of… well you know , speculation.

So what is the actual information?

The unidentified quote

Greetings,
Palm is pleased to invite you to participate in the launch of Zeppelin and Skywriter.

As a launch developer, you can participate in additional marketing and sales program opportunities with Palm for your eligible application.

Your application is eligible for these programs if:
- Your application is ready at the time of device launch
- Your application has successfully passed Designed for Palm Products (DFPP) compatibility testing. Learn more about DFPP at http://pdn.palm.com/dfpp.

Please let your relationship manager know if you plan on participating and when you have submitted your application for compatibility testing so we can expedite your application through the process.

Carrier Sales Training Materials
Information about your application will be included in the materials prepared for carrier sales training about the device. This opportunity lets the carriers and the carrier sales teams know which applications Palm has approved for use on Zeppelin devices.

How to participate:
Fill out the attached PowerPoint template. Drop in a screen shot in the screen area of the device. Return the template to your relationship manager.
Submission due date: Friday May 30th

Retail Demonstrations – NEW!
Through Palm’s association with MarketSource, your application can be demonstrated by MarketSource personnel to carrier retail outlets and large retailers throughout the United States. Simply provide MarketSource with your application and they’ll do the rest. It is like having 40+ evangelists demonstrating your application to carrier sales teams.

How to Participate:
Please let your relationship manager know if you plan on participating and please confirm when you have submitted your application for compatibility testing so we can expedite your application through the process.

We will contact you about your application, when it can be scheduled for demonstration, retail/sales initiatives, and how to provide your application.

We look forward to working with you on getting your application part of our Zeppelin and Skywriter launches. Please feel free to contact me any questions you might have.

Is this an in house Palm promotion? or a contest? or just higgley piggelydy info to create a media stir?